Nigel Pearson dead – Phil Taylor leads tributes as legendary darts commentator and TalkSport presenter dies aged 52
LEGENDARY darts and TalkSport commentator Nigel Pearson has died aged 52.
His death was announced on Friday as fans flooded social media with tributes.
Sixteen-times world darts champion Phil Taylor said: “Sad, sad news about Nigel Pearson passing away. Always polite and a good guy. RIP.”
Talksport tweeted: “RIP @NigelPearson
“A talented commentator, reporter and the brilliant voice of our darts coverage.
“Nigel was part of the talkSPORT team right from the launch of the station. We’re all shocked by his death today.”
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Pearson was a part of the talkSport team since its launch back in 1995, covering football, reporting on different clubs the station said.
Official British Speedway tweeted: “It is with the deepest sadness and regret that we announce the passing of much loved sport commentator, presenter and journalist, Nigel Pearson, aged 52, earlier today.
“We ask everyone to fully respect Nigel’s family’s privacy at this time.
“All of our thoughts and love go to his wife Kerrie, daughter Sarah and sons Liam and Jake. A full tribute to Nigel will follow.”
Among those who paid tribute to Pearson was TalkSport presenter Ian Danter who tweeted: “I’m heartbroken Nigel Pearson has so sadly just passed away.
“Just the most beautiful soul, full of laughs and character.
“Thoughts with Kerrie and the family at this time Nige was the best of us and I owe him so so much. Miss you mate xxxxx”
Gerwyn Price, world number one darts player said he was “shocked and saddened” by the death of a “great guy” who “will be deeply missed.”
West Bromwich Albion said: “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Nigel Pearson.
“An inspirational broadcaster. A huge Albion fan. A true friend. Our thoughts are with Nigel’s family at this desperately sad time.
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“We’ll miss you so, so much Nige”
Radio presenter Adrian Goldberg said: “So sorry to hear about the unexpected passing of my mate Nigel Pearson – one of the good guys.
“A brilliant commentator who genuinely loved sport, and a Baggie to boot.
“Knew him from working in various press boxes and then at Talksport. Distraught to hear he’s no longer with us”
TalkSPORT football editor Jason Bourne tweeted: “I’m sorry to say but our friend and colleague Nigel Pearson has passed away.
“He was a lovely man and great company.
“A fixture at talkSPORT since the beginning, Nigel commentated on our first ever live national Premier League fixture in 2006 and has called big moments at World Cups and Euros.
“He was one of the voices of the West Midlands and often attended games watching his beloved West Brom.
“Nigel was someone I always found warm and friendly – from my days as a talkSPORT web geek to my role as Football Editor.
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“Away from football he loved his darts, his speedway and, above everything, his adoring family.
“This is a short note and there’s so much more I could say. There’s so much more others will and can say too. We’ll all miss him deeply.”